Citizenship and naturalization

Naturalization and Citizenship Lawyer in the Washington, D.C. Area

At the Law Offices of Amelia L. Ramer,

I represent immigrants who are seeking naturalization or U.S. citizenship. My services are complete from the initial consultation to preparing and submitting the application, counseling clients on what documents to bring and what to expect at the interview and preparing clients for the English and Civics examination.

Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR's) are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through the process of naturalization. To qualify, applicants must have lived in the U.S. for five years (three if married to a U.S. citizen) with a clean criminal record, show that they have filed income tax returns each year, show that they are of "good moral character," and pass basic exams on U.S. history and government. They must also demonstrate proficiency in English.

I help individuals who request going through the naturalization process. In case of any irregularity, such as any criminal record either in the U.S. or in their home countries, I help them make arrangements to demonstrate good moral character and evidence of their rehabilitation by such measures as obtaining psychiatric exams or character references from employers.

In some cases, the presence of a criminal record may not prevent the applicant from becoming a naturalized citizen. However, I do advise individuals not to apply for citizenship if the obstacles make risk too great, and by applying they may not only lose the chance at citizenship, but could be subject to the removal process. In some cases, retaining one's current residency status is a safer route.

I assist in citizenship applications for other types of cases as well. For example, minor adopted children of U.S. citizens can obtain citizenship without meeting many of those requirements.

While it is true that individuals can apply for citizenship without the assistance of an attorney, it is much more prudent to take advantage of my experience and legal knowledge. The immigration process is very complex, and takes years to complete when everything is done properly and no complications arise. If you make an error in you application, you not only will have your application rejected, but you lose your position in the queue and must start all over from the beginning.

Contact me for an experienced immigration lawyer working for you as you seek U.S. citizenship, family-based visas or a green card.

Law Offices of Amelia L. Ramer
2508 Charlestown Lane
Reston, VA 20191
Telephone 703-481-5650
Fax 703-481-5645